Cybercriminals constantly target mobile apps to steal data, exploit vulnerabilities, and disrupt services. That’s where Mobile Application Penetration Testing (MAPT) helps secure mobile applications.
However, Android and iOS apps differ significantly in structure, security controls, and testing approaches. In this blog we will compare both platforms’ penetration testing processes and understand how they are different from each other.
Understanding Mobile Application Penetration Testing
Mobile Application Penetration Testing is a controlled process that simulates real-world attacks on applications. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities in:
- Application code
- APIs and backend servers
- Data storage mechanisms
- Authentication and authorization processes
Mobile Application Penetration testing helps ensure apps comply with global security standards such as OWASP Mobile Top 10 and ISO 27001, keeping business and customer data safe.
Why Android and iOS Require Different Penetration Testing Approaches?
Although both platforms serve similar purposes, their architecture, permissions, and development frameworks differ. These differences affect how penetration testers assess risks and vulnerabilities. Let’s explore these differences in detail.
1. Application Architecture and Source Code Access
Android:
- Android apps use APK files, which can be easily decompiled.
- Testers can access source code to identify insecure APIs, data leaks, and permission misuse.
- The open-source nature of Android allows deeper inspection.
iOS:
- iOS apps are distributed as IPA files, which are encrypted and sandboxed.
- Accessing source code is more difficult due to Apple’s strict security controls.
- Testers often use jailbroken devices or emulators for testing.
Verdict: Android testing allows for more direct code analysis, while iOS testing focuses on runtime behavior and data encryption.
2. Security Model and Permissions
Android:
- Uses a permission-based model, where users grant access to app features.
- Vulnerabilities often arise from excessive permissions or poor configuration.
iOS:
- Uses entitlements and sandboxing, restricting app access to system resources.
- Fewer permission-related issues, but misconfigured entitlements can still pose risks.
Verdict: Android apps face broader permission challenges, while iOS apps are more controlled but need strict entitlement testing.
3. Data Storage and Encryption
Android:
- Data may be stored in SQLite databases, shared preferences, or external storage.
- Common flaws include unencrypted sensitive data and exposed files.
iOS:
- Data is stored in the Keychain or NSUserDefaults with strong encryption.
- Vulnerabilities may arise from improper key management or insecure caching.
Verdict: iOS offers stronger default encryption, but both platforms require careful testing of stored data.
4. Testing Tools and Frameworks
Android Tools:
- QARK, Drozer, Burp Suite, MobSF, and Metasploit are common.
- These tools analyze code, network traffic, and API communications.
iOS Tools:
- Frida, Objection, Needle, and Burp Suite are used for runtime analysis.
- Focuses on reverse engineering and analyzing encrypted data flows.
Verdict: Android testing emphasizes static code and permissions, while iOS testing prioritizes runtime and encryption analysis.
5. Common Vulnerabilities Found
In Android Apps:
- Insecure data storage
- Improper SSL/TLS implementation
- Hardcoded credentials
- Excessive permissions
- Weak cryptography
In iOS Apps:
- Insecure inter-app communication
- Jailbreak detection bypass
- Misconfigured entitlements
- Insecure data caching
- API authentication flaws
Verdict: Both platforms share similar risks, but their exploitation techniques differ due to platform restrictions.
Key Differences Between Android and iOS Mobile Application Penetration Testing
Below is a table of Comparison of Android and iOS Mobile Application Penetration Testing:
| Aspect | Android Pentesting | iOS Pentesting |
| Source Code Access | Easier (APK files can be decompiled using tools like JADX or apktool) | Restricted (IPA files are encrypted and require jailbroken devices or developer access) |
| Security Model | Permission-based architecture that defines access to system components | Strong sandbox model with strict entitlements controlling inter-app communication |
| Tools Used | QARK, Drozer, Burp Suite, MobSF | Frida, Objection, Needle, MobSF |
| Common Risks | Insecure data storage, excessive permissions, exposed API keys, weak encryption | Jailbreak bypass, insecure entitlements, improper keychain usage, unencrypted sensitive data |
| Testing Focus | Static and dynamic analysis to detect configuration and runtime vulnerabilities | Runtime manipulation, encryption validation, and certificate pinning checks |
| Compliance Impact | Must comply with PDPL, PCI DSS, and Google Play Security Standards | Must comply with PDPL, PCI DSS, and Apple Developer Security Guidelines |
| Reverse Engineering Resistance | Typically lower; apps can be reverse-engineered easily without obfuscation | Higher due to app encryption and tighter OS restrictions |
| Data Storage & Access Control | Uses Shared Preferences and SQLite databases (more prone to exposure) | Uses Keychain and Secure Enclave (stronger built-in protection) |
| Device Access | Easier with emulators and rooted devices | Requires jailbroken devices or developer provisioning |
| App Distribution Security | Open ecosystem allows third-party app stores, increasing risk of tampered apps | Closed ecosystem — only App Store distribution is allowed, reducing malicious app risks |
| Encryption & Certificate Handling | Developers must manually implement SSL pinning and encryption | Enforced stricter certificate validation and ATS (App Transport Security) by default |
| User Privilege Exploits | Rooted devices increase exposure to privilege escalation | Jailbroken devices can bypass app restrictions and reveal hidden vulnerabilities |
About Peneto Labs
At Peneto Labs, we offer comprehensive Mobile Application Penetration Testing for both Android and iOS platforms. Peneto Labs has been empanelled by CERT-In to conduct information security auditing services. Our approach combines manual testing and automated tools to identify vulnerabilities that may expose sensitive data or disrupt business operations.
Our Penetration Testing Process includes:
- Static and dynamic analysis for Android and iOS.
- Secure API and backend server testing.
- OWASP Mobile Top 10 compliance checks.
- Detailed risk reports with prioritized recommendations.
- Continuous security support and remediation guidance.
Why Choose Peneto Labs?
We have successfully delivered 2000+ security audits and are clients are amongst the top brands of India. We offer following benefits:
- Both follow both manual and automated penetration testing approach
- Certified cybersecurity experts with global compliance knowledge.
- Proven experience in fintech, e-commerce, and government sectors.
- Trusted by leading businesses for accurate, reliable testing.
With Peneto Labs, your mobile applications remain resilient against real-world attacks – ensuring user trust, compliance, and business continuity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why do Android and iOS apps need separate penetration tests?
Both platforms use different architectures, coding frameworks, and security models, which require unique testing approaches.
2. How often should a business perform mobile app penetration testing?
At least once a year, or after every major app update, feature addition, or code change.
3. Which platform is more secure- Android or iOS?
iOS offers stronger default restrictions, but security depends on coding practices and regular penetration testing.
4. What standards does Peneto Labs follow during testing?
We follow OWASP Mobile Top 10, ISO 27001, and other compliance requirements.
5. Can Peneto Labs test both Android and iOS apps together?
Yes. We provide penetration testing for both platforms, including their APIs, servers, and integrations.
Final Thoughts
Both Android and iOS applications face unique security challenges. While Android offers flexibility, it also exposes more risk areas. iOS provides stronger built-in security but requires specialized testing to uncover hidden flaws.
Partnering with Peneto Labs ensures your mobile apps are tested thoroughly using global best practices, keeping your business compliant, trusted, and cyber-resilient. Book a FREE scoping call with us today.